Dawna (Rohrs) Hall (Ward 3)
Age: 47
Occupation and employer: Manager of Financial Operations Service at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska
Years living in Auburn and your ward: Auburn: 12 years; Ward 3: 2 years and 4 months
Family: Parents: Randy and Cathy Rohrs; 3 Adult Children: Taylor, Trent, and Trey; 2 Grandchildren: Serenity and Symphony
Education: Associates of Applied Science Degree in Accounting
Previous elected or appointed public service, including boards, commissions and committees: N/A
Introduce yourself to voters who may not know you. What brought you to Auburn or kept you here, and what led you to run for City Council?
I’m a lifelong Nemaha County resident who grew up in Auburn and Johnson and graduated from Johnson-Brock. After time in Mississippi, Arkansas, and Omaha, I returned in 2014 and moved into Ward 3 in 2024. I’ve attended nearly every council meeting since, and I’m concerned by the lack of transparency, limited discussion, and minimal public engagement. As a data and systems analyst with strong finance experience, I believe decisions should be informed, documented, and accountable. I’m straightforward, solutions focused, and committed to improving communication, strengthening checks and balances, and ensuring the council fully understands what it votes on.
What does a City Council member actually do, in your understanding? Where does the council's authority end and the mayor's begin?
A City Council member in Auburn is responsible for setting local policy, approving budgets, passing ordinances, and ensuring transparency and accountability in how the city operates. The council provides oversight, asks questions, and represents residents in all major decisions. The mayor oversees daily administration, supervises city staff, and carries out the policies and directives established by the council. The council does not manage employees, and the mayor cannot independently create policy. Clear separation of authority ensures checks and balances, open decision making, and responsible use of public funds.
What do you hear most often from people in your ward, and what specifically in your ward needs attention that the city has not addressed and how would you go about resolving the issue? Also how will you work to connect with constituents?
Residents in Ward 3 consistently raise concerns about limited communication, lack of transparency, and not feeling heard at City Council meetings. People want clearer explanations of decisions, better access to information, and meaningful opportunities for public input. I will address this by asking direct questions, requiring full documentation, and promoting open, respectful discussion. I’m committed to staying connected through listening sessions, regular updates, and being available to discuss any issue. Constituents are welcome to reach out to me anytime at 4022164234 to share concerns or ideas.
Vacant downtown buildings, water supplies, workforce recruitment, Tax Increment Financing and childcare availability all surfaced during the primary as issues important to voters. Pick the one you consider most urgent and describe what the city can do about it, including reasoning, costs and who else would need to be at the table.
I know I have more to learn about Tax Increment Financing, and I believe TIF deserves closer attention. It can be a useful redevelopment tool, but many residents—including myself—want clearer understanding of how it works, how projects are selected, and whether Auburn sees longterm benefits. The city should review current TIF projects, evaluate return on investment, and ensure funds support improvements that genuinely strengthen our tax base. This requires collaboration with property owners, the Chamber, lenders, and economic development experts. Transparent criteria and public input would help rebuild trust and ensure TIF is used responsibly.
The council approves the city budget. What is your understanding of how that process works, and what would you look at first if the city had to cut spending or raise revenue?
The council reviews departmental needs, revenue projections, and longterm obligations before approving Auburn’s annual budget. My understanding is that the process requires evaluating each fund, confirming documentation, and ensuring spending aligns with community priorities. If the city had to cut costs, I would first examine nonessential expenses, duplicated services, and areas lacking clear justification. If revenue needed to increase, I’d look at fee structures, grants, and economic development opportunities rather than burdening residents. Any changes must be data driven, transparent, and discussed openly with department heads and the public.
Is there anything else you would like voters in your ward to know?
I want voters to know I’m a hard worker who takes pride in doing things the right way. I’m honest, accountable, and willing to admit when I’m wrong. I’m data driven and not afraid to challenge the status quo or ask tough questions when needed. I’m direct, and you will always get my honest opinion. We won’t agree on everything, but I will listen to all sides, follow the facts, and make informed decisions. I believe in being fiscally responsible and advocating for responsible use of public funds. Ward 3 residents can reach me anytime at 4022164234.
Nathan R Seitz (Ward 3) Incumbent
